When our toddler entered the nonstop exploration phase, we realized how essential it was to provide toys that supported meaningful play. That’s where Montessori toys made all the difference. Designed with intention and rooted in decades of research, these toys foster independence, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery.
Unlike flashy, battery-powered gadgets, Montessori toys are beautiful in their simplicity. They focus on one skill at a time, encouraging your child to engage more deeply. Below, we’ve compiled nine of the best Montessori toys for toddlers in 2025—based on personal experience, developmental impact, and lasting quality.
1. Lovevery Block Set
Best For: Open-ended developmental play
Price: $90
Link: lovevery.com
We started with the Lovevery Block Set around our daughter’s first birthday, and it has been a go-to favorite since. With over 70 pieces, the set includes magnetic wheels, threadable blocks, planks, and more. Whether she was building towers or converting the box into a pull-along cart, she was always learning.
The thoughtful design means this set evolves as your child does, growing in complexity and usefulness.
2. Grimm’s Wooden Rainbow Stacker
Best For: Imaginative, open-ended play
Price: $98
Link: grimm-world.com
This rainbow stacker is more than a beautiful nursery display—it’s a toy that inspires endless creativity. Our toddler used it to build tunnels for cars, bridges for animals, and abstract sculptures. The handcrafted wood and non-toxic dyes make it a safe and durable choice.
It supports concepts like sequencing, balance, and spatial awareness without any need for instructions.
3. Mixi Soft Silicone Building Blocks
Best For: Sensory and tactile exploration
Price: $23 (set of 12)
Link: amazon.com
These were perfect for the “everything goes in the mouth” phase. Made of food-grade silicone, each block features a unique texture, pattern, and number. They’re chew-safe, bath-safe, and stackable.
We loved bringing them in the car or stroller for quiet, screen-free play. Bonus: they helped our little one recognize numbers and shapes early on.
4. Orcamor Wooden Elephant Stacking Rings
Best For: Fine motor skills
Price: $29
Link: orcamor.com
This adorable elephant-topped stacker is both aesthetic and functional. It taught our daughter to focus, grasp, and organize by size. The rings are lightweight and smooth, perfect for little hands.
Handcrafted from natural beechwood and sealed with organic coconut oil, it also made a lovely gift.
5. LEGO DUPLO Number Train
Best For: Early counting and sequencing
Price: $19
Link: lego.com
While not strictly Montessori, DUPLO offers valuable developmental benefits. Our toddler began counting simply by aligning the numbered train cars. The pieces are large enough for toddlers to manipulate easily and safe enough for supervised solo play.
We appreciated how it combined fun with an early introduction to numbers.
6. Promise Babe Organic Wooden Rattles
Best For: Infant sensory play
Price: $22 (set of 4)
Link: amazon.com
These were among the first toys we ever introduced. Soft rattling sounds, smooth wood, and a variety of shapes helped with sensory exploration during the infant stage. We often used them during tummy time or car rides to keep our baby engaged.
They’re made from non-toxic, natural wood and designed to last through multiple children.
7. Goodevas Pikler Triangle and Ramp
Best For: Gross motor development
Price: $215
Link: goodevas.com
Indoor climbing was a game changer in our house. The Pikler Triangle gave our child a safe way to build strength and confidence. It helped with coordination, balance, and spatial understanding.
Even better? It folds flat for easy storage—a lifesaver for apartment living.
8. Safari Ltd Animal Figurines
Best For: Language and pretend play
Price: $15–$25 per set
Link: safariltd.com
We used these realistic animal figurines during story time to connect words with visuals. Later, they became characters in imaginative jungle safaris, zoo adventures, and farm scenes.
They’re excellent for vocabulary-building and make a great pairing with animal-themed books.
9. Monti Kids Wooden Shape Sorter
Best For: Problem-solving and shape recognition
Price: $65
Link: montikids.com
We tried several shape sorters, but this one stood out. It’s just challenging enough to keep toddlers engaged without frustration. The materials are top-quality, and the design aligns directly with Montessori principles.
It also comes with learning resources for parents to help guide the play.
Final Thoughts
Choosing Montessori toys is about more than play—it’s about supporting your child’s natural development. These nine toys offered our toddler everything from movement and creativity to language and problem-solving. We saw firsthand how much more engaged and independent she became when playing with purposefully designed toys.
Whether you’re starting your Montessori journey or just looking for a few mindful additions, these options are parent-tested, toddler-approved, and built to last.